Third Consecutive Year of Decline in Opioid Overdose Deaths

Third Consecutive Year of Decline in Opioid Overdose Deaths

by | Jun 5, 2025 | Regional News
Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 5, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

Michigan Projects Third Consecutive Year of Decline in Opioid Overdose Deaths

LANSING – In a sign of continued progress, Michigan overdose deaths are projected to decline in 2024 for the third consecutive year – an encouraging sign that the state’s comprehensive response to the opioid crisis is saving lives.

Analysis of provisional data from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) indicates a 34% reduction in overdose deaths between 2023 and 2024 – about 1,000 deaths. This continued progress reflects the impact of sustained, strategic investment in prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm-reduction efforts – many of which are made possible through additional funding received as a result of Michigan’s participation in the national opioid settlements.

Since 2019, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has helped secure more than $1.6 billion in settlements for Michigan governments from companies such as McKinsey & Co, Distributors Cardinal Health, McKesson, Inc., and AmerisourceBergen, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Teva Pharmaceutical, Allergan Pharmaceutical, CVS, Walmart and Walgreens. 

“The progress we are seeing in combatting the opioid epidemic proves what is possible when real investments are made in treatment and prevention,” Nessel said. “My office will continue working to hold those responsible for this crisis accountable to ensure the health and well-being of residents are put ahead of corporate greed and help support long-term recovery efforts for Michigan families.”

The majority of opioid settlement funds are distributed equally between local governments and the state’s Michigan Opioid Healing and Recovery Fund. These dollars have supported evidence-based strategies identified by the Michigan Opioids Task Force – including the distribution of more than 1.3 million naloxone kits, with nearly 34,000 reported uses to reverse overdoses and save lives. Funds have also supported early detection of emerging contaminants in the drug supply and the development of data tools that guide local and statewide response efforts.

“Thanks to coordinated, statewide efforts and strategic investments, we have seen a significant decline in overdose deaths in Michigan. According to the most recent year of data, we ranked in the top five states for greatest reduction in overdose deaths,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive for the State of Michigan. “Through the work of the Michigan Opioids Task Force and our local partners, we’ve distributed more than a million naloxone kits, strengthened our data systems, prevented thousands of overdose deaths using naloxone, and helped people access the care and support they need.”

Community-based groups are also playing a vital role in Michigan’s progress by expanding outreach, providing education, and offering peer recovery support. One such organization is Face Addiction Now, a nonprofit organization that connects individuals and families impacted by substance use with no-cost programs and resources.

“After years of heartbreaking increases in opioid overdose deaths, it’s incredibly encouraging to see a decline in Michigan and across the nation,” said Lauren A. Rousseau, president of the Northwest Wayne County Chapter of Face Addiction Now. “This progress is the result of meaningful collaboration between state leaders, treatment providers, and grassroots organizations. Attorney General Dana Nessel’s leadership in securing opioid settlement funds for Michigan is so important, as it allows for much-needed investments in prevention, treatment, recovery support, and harm reduction. At Face Addiction Now (FAN), we’re proud to be part of this life-saving work—but we know there’s still more to do. While overdose deaths have declined significantly, due in part to the increased accessibility of Narcan, nonfatal overdoses remain high. Sustained funding, community engagement, and a continued focus on reducing stigma are essential to turning the tide on the opioid crisis for good.”

To ensure clarity in opioid settlement documents and distributions, the Attorney General launched a web page dedicated to opioid settlements in March 2024. The web page is intended to help residents and local units of government find multiple sources of information in one place, including an opioid settlement payment estimator searchable by individual settlement, municipality, and year of receipt.

The State also maintains a public dashboard and regularly updated web pages to help communities track how funds are being used and to monitor progress toward statewide goals.

More information and resources can be found at the Michigan Opioids webpage.
AG Intervenes in Consumers Energy’s Rate Hike Request

AG Intervenes in Consumers Energy’s Rate Hike Request

by | Jun 3, 2025 | Regional News

Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
June 2, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

Attorney General Nessel Intervenes in Consumers Energy’s $436 Million Rate Hike Request

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has filed a notice of intervention (PDF) in Consumers Energy Company’s latest electric rate case (U-21870), the full application for which was filed today (PDF) before the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC). This follows Consumers’ filed announcement of their intention to hike electric rates (PDF) made in a March filing before the MPSC a mere seven days after their latest electric rate hike was approved. Consumers Energy is seeking an annual rate hike of approximately $436 million (PDF) which, if approved, would take effect in May 2026. It marks the largest electric rate hike the company has proposed during Attorney General Nessel’s time in office and is likely the largest in decades.

This rate hike request comes just two months after the MPSC approved the for-profit company’s $154 million rate hike in March, which took effect upon their customers’ electricity bills on April 4, 2025. In addition to the latest proposed annual rate hike, Consumers Energy is also aiming to recover from their bill-paying customers an additional $24 million in deferred distribution costs through a separate 12-month surcharge. The rate hike alone would increase overall rates by 9.2% and hike household rates by 13.3%.

“Before Consumers Energy, or anyone else for that matter, can even begin to measure any affordability or reliability improvements from their last rate hike, the company is back in business asking to bill their customers an additional $400 million annually. In a troubling continuation of the patterns we see before the MPSC from both Consumers Energy and DTE, this is at least among the largest rate hikes Consumers has ever requested, if not the largest itself,” Nessel said. “When my office alerted the public to Consumers’ announcement of this intended rate hike two months ago, the utility tried to tell their ratepayers we were wrong on the facts or misleading the people of this state. Instead, they’ve done exactly what we knew they would, exactly as their filing indicated in March. My office will thoroughly scrutinize this request and will not be deterred in our fight to protect Michigan ratepayers from corporate greed and endless, increasing rate hikes.”

Attorney General Nessel has intervened in this rate case as she does in all major utility rate cases before the MPSC. The Department of Attorney General’s staff, along with its experts, will carefully scrutinize the filing to ensure customers do not pay any cost that does not have commensurate quantifiable benefits. Recent rate hike requests from DTE and Consumers Energy have included such inappropriate costs as private jet travel for executive staff and other unsupported expenditures that could not be demonstrated to benefit their customers. Additional rate hike cases open before the Commission include DTE’s latest electric rate hike request (U-21860) and Consumers Energy’s natural gas rate hike request (U-21806).

The Attorney General has saved Michigan consumers more than $3.7 billion by intervening in utility cases before the MPSC. Consumers Energy sells electricity to approximately 1.9 million customers throughout Michigan and natural gas to 1.8 million customers across the state.
Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions 

Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions 

by | May 22, 2025 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 22, 2025

Contact: press@michigan.gov

Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions 

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced appointments to the following boards and commissions: Central Michigan University Board of Trustees; Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Board; Organized Retail Crime Advisory Board; Michigan Craft Beverage Council; Advisory Board for the Michigan Intelligence Operations Center for Homeland Security; Michigan Tax Tribunal; Michigan Board of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons; Michigan Aeronautics Commission; Michigan Workforce Development Board; Michigan Carrot Commission; Michigan Apple Committee; Underground Storage Tank Authority Board of Directors; Michigan Board of Nursing Home Administrators; Ski Area Safety Board; and the Michigan Board of Examiners in Mortuary Science. 

 

Central Michigan University Board of Trustees

David McGhee, of Grand Blanc, is the executive vice president and chief operating officer of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint and an instructor in nonprofit management at Oakland University. McGhee was previously the chief executive officer of The Steve Fund, chief strategy and program officer for the Schultz Family Foundation, and vice president of organizational excellence and impact at The Skillman Foundation. McGhee is a board member for Learn Fresh, past president of the Flint Public Library Board of Trustees and previously served as co-chair of the Michigan Forum for African Americans in Philanthropy at the Council of Michigan Foundations. McGhee holds a Bachelor of Science in public administration and public policy from Oakland University and a Master of Science in administration leadership from Central Michigan University. David McGhee is appointed for a term commencing May 22, 2025, and expiring December 31, 2026. McGhee succeeds Todd Anson, who has resigned.

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Board

Aisha Farooqi, of Sterling Heights, is an attorney and former assistant prosecutor at the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office. Farooqi is a lifelong public servant and has spent her legal career practicing family and immigration law in both the private and public sectors. Farooqi holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of Michigan – Dearborn and a Juris Doctor from the University of Detroit Mercy Law School. Aisha Farooqi is appointed to represent the legal community for a term commencing May 22, 2025, and expiring December 19, 2027. Farooqi succeeds Stanley Hannah, whose term has expired.

 

The Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Board, also known as Children Trust Michigan, was established by the Michigan Legislature in 1982 and serves as a voice for Michigan’s children and families and promotes their health, safety, and welfare by funding effective local programs and services that prevent child abuse and neglect.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Organized Retail Crime Advisory Board

Douglas Lloyd, of Lansing, is the prosecuting attorney for the Eaton County Prosecutors Office. Lloyd is a licensed attorney with the State Bar of Michigan and holds a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice and psychology from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and a Juris Doctor from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Douglas Lloyd is reappointed as a county prosecuting attorney for a term commencing May 22, 2025, and expiring March 30, 2029.

 

The Organized Retail Crime Advisory Board was created to develop a database of organized retail crimes, compile annual statistics on organized retail crime acts, recommend actions to be taken by the department and law enforcement to further combat organized retail crime, and to submit an annual report to the director of the department on the effectiveness of this act in reducing organized retail crime.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Craft Beverage Council

Rebecca Wauldron, of Ann Arbor, is the executive chef and category manager for beer, wine, and spirits at Busch’s Fresh Food Market. Wauldron was previously an instructor and bartender at Tammy’s Tastings. Rebecca holds a Bachelor of Arts in history and education from the University of Michigan and a culinary arts degree from Schoolcraft College. Rebecca Wauldron is appointed to represent retail food establishments that hold a specially designated merchant license and sell Michigan wines or beer for a term commencing May 22, 2025, and expiring on September 30, 2026. Rebecca Wauldron succeeds Sean Black, who has resigned.

 

Sarah Anderson, of Thompsonville, is the co-founder of Iron Fish Distilleries. Anderson holds a Bachelor of Arts in art history and journalism from Michigan State University. Sarah Anderson is appointed to represent small distillers for a term commencing May 22, 2025, and expiring September 30, 2027. Anderson succeeds Richard Anderson, whose term has expired.

 

The Michigan Craft Beverage Council replaced the Grape and Wine Industry Council. The Council will award grants for research into winemaking, hops, barley, beer, and spirits; conduct market surveys and analysis; and offer other programs that encourage the agricultural elements related to Michigan’s craft beverage industries. The Council’s activities are funded exclusively by non-retail, non-wholesale liquor license fees.

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Advisory Board for the Michigan Intelligence Operations Center for Homeland Security

Jacqueline Wyse, of Jasper, is the Lenawee County prosecutor. Wyse holds a Juris Doctor from Thomas Cooley Law School. Jacqueline Wyse is appointed as a representative of the office of a county prosecutor for a term commencing May 22, 2025, and expiring April 11, 2029.

 

The Advisory Board for the Michigan Intelligence Operations Center for Homeland Security collects, evaluates, collates, and analyzes information and intelligence and then, as appropriate, disseminates this information and intelligence to the proper public safety agencies so that any threat of terrorism or criminal activity will be successfully identified and addressed.

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Tax Tribunal

Michael Bannasch is a certified public accountant and current Michigan Tax Tribunal Judge. Bannasch holds a Bachelor of Arts in accounting and business administration from Spring Arbor University and a Master of Science in taxation from Grand Valley State University. Michael Bannasch will be reappointed to represent certified public accountants for a term commencing July 1, 2025, and expiring June 30th, 2029.

 

The Michigan Tax Tribunal is an administrative court that hears tax appeals for all Michigan taxes. Most of the Tribunal’s appeals involve property tax; however, the Tribunal also hears business and individual tax disputes.

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Board of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons

Christopher Germain, of Escanaba, is a realtor with Premier Real Estate. Germain holds an Institute One certification from Holloway’s Real Estate Institute and is the president of Michigan Realtors. Christopher Germain will be reappointed to represent real estate brokers and salespersons for a term commencing July 1, 2025, and expiring June 30, 2029.

 

The Michigan Board of Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons was created under Article 25 of Public Act 299 of 1980, as amended, to license and regulate the practice of real estate brokers and salespersons in Michigan. The Board works with the Department to oversee the practice of real estate salespersons, associate real estate brokers, real estate brokers, and branch offices.

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Aeronautics Commission

Russ Kavalhuna, of Dearborn, was recently named president of Western Michigan University and currently serves as president of Henry Ford College. Kavalhuna was previously a commercial airline pilot, assistant U.S. attorney, and executive director of Western Michigan University’s College of Aviation. Kavalhuna holds a Bachelor of Science in aviation science from Western Michigan University and a Juris Doctor from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Russ Kavalhuna will be reappointed for a term commencing May 28, 2025, and expiring May 27, 2029.

 

Rick Fiddler, of Ada, is the owner of Rick Fiddler Aviation Consulting, LLC and has been a licensed pilot for over fifty years. Fiddler is retired from Amway Aviation where he served as the vice president of aviation. Fiddler holds a Bachelor of Science in pre-law from Ferris State University and is an inductee to the Living Legends of Aviation Hall of Fame. Rick Fiddler will be reappointed for a term commencing May 28, 2025, and expiring May 27, 2029.

 

The Michigan Aeronautics Commission is responsible for the general supervision of all aeronautics within the state. The Commission is empowered by state law to make rules and regulations governing all airports, flight schools, and other aeronautical activities.

 

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Workforce Development Board

Bilal Hammoud, of Dearborn Heights, is the executive director of the American Arab Chamber of Commerce and CEO of Tejara, an incubator and accelerator for first- and second-generation immigrant entrepreneurs. Prior to this, he was the public engagement director at the Michigan Department of State, project manager for the City of Cheboygan, and Chair of Michigan’s Language Access Task Force. Hammoud holds a Bachelor of Science in public health and neuropsychology from Wayne State University, as well as master’s in public administration. Hammoud also holds a certificate in Political Leadership from Michigan State University and certificates in Strategy Execution and Leadership Management from Harvard Business School. Hammoud currently serves on multiple boards, including the Wayne State University Alumni Board, the United Humanitarian Foundation, Don’t Be Shai, the Islamic House of Wisdom, APIA Vote MI, and the Dearborn Heights Libraries Board. Hammoud also acts as the advisor for the Dearborn and Dearborn Heights Model United Nations Club. Bilal Hammoud will be reappointed to represent business for a term commencing May 30, 2025, and expiring May 29, 2029.

 

Stephanie Schoenherr, of Grand Rapids, is the director of human resources operations at Cascade Engineering and additionally serves as the governing board secretary for The SOURCE, a nonprofit organization focused on workforce development and retention. Schoenherr holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology and family studies from Central Michigan University and a professional certification from the Society for Human Resource Management. Stephanie Schoenherr will be reappointed to represent manufacturing business enterprises for a term commencing May 30, 2025, and expiring May 29, 2029.

 

Martha Zehnder Kaczynski, of Frankenmuth, is the vice president of the Bavarian Inn Lodge, and president of the Frankenmuth Cheese Haus. Kaczynski attended the Culinary Institute of America and holds a Bachelor of Arts in hospitality business from Michigan State University. Martha Zehnder Kaczynski will be reappointed to represent business for a term commencing May 30, 2025, and expiring May 29, 2029.

 

The Michigan Workforce Development Board is responsible for the development and continuous improvement of the workforce development system in Michigan. The Board acts as an advisory body to assist the Governor with the development, implementation, and modification of Michigan’s four-year state plan pursuant to the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and advance the Governor’s 60 by 30 goal of helping 60% of our workforce achieve a post-secondary degree or certification by 2030.

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Carrot Commission

Craig Brandt, of Imlay City, is the owner of Valley Farms, LLC. Brandt holds both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in business administration from Baker College. Craig Brandt is reappointed to represent growers for a term commencing May 22, 2025, and expiring October 31, 2027.

 

The Michigan Carrot Commission promotes the production and consumption of carrots grown in Michigan and assists in the agricultural research and development of carrot farming.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Apple Committee

Caleb Coulter, of New Era, is the owner of New Era’s American Apple and Asparagus and the West Michigan sales representative for Reister’s Grower Services. Coulter attended Baker College. Caleb Coulter is reappointed to represent district 3 growers for a term commencing May 22, 2025, and expiring April 1, 2028.

 

Kimberly Kropf, of Lowell, is the vice president of Hart Farm, LLC. Kropf sits on the board of directors for the U.S. Apple Association and is a member of the Michigan Farm Bureau. Kimberly Kropf is reappointed to represent district 2 growers for a term commencing May 22, 2025, and expiring April 1, 2028.

 

The Michigan Apple Committee is dedicated to improving the profitability of Michigan’s fresh and processed apple industries. The Committee coordinates market development, educational activities, and research that benefits the 1000 family apple growers in Michigan through improved profitability, ensuring the continued success of this sector of Michigan agriculture.

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Underground Storage Tank Authority Board of Directors

Richard Bratschi, of Williamston, is the owner and operator of Lake Lansing Road Mobil Service, Inc.   Richard Bratschi will be reappointed to represent independent petroleum marketers for a term commencing May 26, 2025, and expiring May 25, 2028.

 

Jennifer McKay, of Alto, is an at-large representative on the Michigan Environmental Council Board of Directors and the former chief policy and governmental affairs director for Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council. McKay holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and a Bachelor of Science in environmental studies from Michigan State University. Jennifer McKay will be reappointed as an individual from a statewide environmental organization for a term commencing May 26, 2025, and expiring May 25, 2028.

 

The Michigan Underground Storage Tank Authority Board of Directors governs the Michigan Underground Storage Tank Authority (MUSTA). The Authority serves Michigan’s petroleum underground storage tank owners and operators, local units of government, and country road commissions by managing the Underground Storage Tank Cleanup Fund, Legacy Release Program, and Public Highway Cleanup Program on a sound fiscal basis.

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Board of Nursing Home Administrators

Dr. Dana Prince, of Byron Center, is the executive director for St. Ann’s Home in Grand Rapids. Prince holds a Bachelor of Arts in biological sciences and Master of Health Administration from Florida Atlantic University, and a Ph.D. in interdisciplinary health sciences from Western Michigan University. Dana Prince will be reappointed to represent nursing home administrators for a term commencing July 1, 2025, and expiring June 30, 2029.

 

The Michigan Board of Nursing Home Administrators was created to license nursing home administrators who plan, organize, direct, and control the total operation of nursing homes on behalf of the governing board or owner of a nursing home. The Board promotes and protects the public’s health, safety, and welfare by ascertaining minimal entry-level competency of nursing home administrators.

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Ski Area Safety Board
AdvantageOakland.com to Boost Economic Development

AdvantageOakland.com to Boost Economic Development

by | May 22, 2025 | Regional News

Oakland County Launches Improved AdvantageOakland.com to Boost Economic Development

Post Date:05/21/2025 8:30 AM
  • AdvantageOakland.com has new tools and data dashboards designed to support site selectors, businesses and investors evaluating Oakland County.
  • Exclusive “Spotlight Sites” and searchable local property listings features high-potential, development-ready locations across the county.
  • An enhanced user experience positions Oakland County as a national leader in economic development strategy and transparency.

Pontiac, Mich. – Oakland County Economic Development has unveiled a redesigned and enhanced version of AdvantageOakland.com, a dynamic showcase of the region’s business advantages.

The newly launched platform offers a suite of tools and data specifically tailored for businesses and site selection professionals evaluating Oakland County as a destination for expansion or relocation. Key features include vetted “Spotlight Sites,” detailed economic data, industry maps, community reports and a searchable Available Properties database focusing exclusively on commercial, industrial, office, retail and vacant land opportunities within Oakland County.

“This tool puts Oakland County’s strengths on full display,” said Oakland County Executive David Coulter. “We are making it easier than ever for businesses to see why Oakland County is a smart, strategic place to invest and grow.”

AdvantageOakland.com’s “Spotlight Sites” focus exclusively on parcels of 10 acres or less which offers flexibility and visibility for smaller, development-ready sites. The site’s Available Properties Search tool complements the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s statewide database by allowing users to dig deeper into local listings.

“This microsite gives us the ability to directly communicate the unique advantages of Oakland County to national and international site selectors,” said Economic Development Director Dom Holmes. “Whether it’s a corporate team doing in-house research or a third-party consultant advising on a relocation, we’ve made it easier to evaluate our assets and connect with opportunities.”

AdvantageOakland.com is designed for a wide range of users from global firms exploring U.S. expansion to local entrepreneurs and investors seeking new ventures. By combining robust data with intuitive navigation, the platform supports Oakland County’s long-term goals of job creation, business retention and sustainable economic development.

To explore the new AdvantageOakland.com and learn more about Oakland County’s economic development initiatives, visit AdvantageOakland.com.

May 18-24 is EMS Recognition Week

May 18-24 is EMS Recognition Week

by | May 19, 2025 | Regional News

MDHHS banner with logo no names

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 19, 2025

MDHHS CONTACT: Laina Stebbins, StebbinsL@michigan.gov
MAAS CONTACT: Laura Biehl, Laura@reschstrategies.com

Governor Whitmer honors Michigan’s EMS Heroes
by proclaiming May 18-24 as EMS Recognition Week
EMS personnel provide life-saving health care to Michiganders 24/7

LANSING, Mich. – To honor the life-saving health care provided by Michigan’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) practitioners every day, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed May 18-24 as EMS Recognition Week in Michigan.

“This week, we come together to honor the courageous EMS professionals who work hard, 24/7, to keep us safe,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “They serve on the frontlines every day, bringing their medical expertise and compassion for people to high-pressure emergency situations. Michiganders everywhere are grateful for their service and sacrifices, and we should celebrate them not only by recognizing them with tributes, but also by having their backs on the job by ensuring they have the pay, benefits, and resources they need to succeed.”

EMS practitioners stand ready day and night to help residents in need. They provide critical pre-hospital care to Michigan residents in emergencies and other health care situations, including preventative medicine, follow-up care, other emergent needs and more. The efforts of EMS practitioners help improve the survival and recovery rates of people who experience sudden illness or injury.

“Michigan’s EMS professionals are the frontline of emergency care, delivering expertise and compassion when every second counts,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “Their dedication saves lives and strengthens the fabric of our communities. This week, and every week, we thank them for answering the call.”

“Michigan EMS practitioners take great pride in serving our communities and provide lifesaving pre-hospital care to residents in need,” said John Clayton, president of the Michigan Association of Ambulance Services and System Director at MyMichigan EMS in Midland. “Working in EMS is a tough but rewarding career, and EMS Week is a great time to celebrate the important role of our industry and its practitioners.”

Michigan is home to 29,367 EMS providers, 804 life support agencies and 4,060 licensed life support vehicles, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Division of EMS and Trauma within the Bureau of Emergency Preparedness, EMS and Systems of Care. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/ems.

There is always a need for new medics to join this essential field. Michigan residents interested in a career in EMS can get involved or learn more at GotWhatItTakes.org.
AG Nessel Post-Storm Scams Alerts Following Severe Weather

AG Nessel Post-Storm Scams Alerts Following Severe Weather

by | May 16, 2025 | Regional News

Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 16, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

AG Nessel Reissues Post-Storm Scams Alerts Following Severe Weather

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reminding residents to watch out for common post-storm scams as communities across Michigan clean up from the latest round of intense storms that moved across the state last night. Attorney General Nessel encourages impacted residents to always take the following steps when they’re ready to start rebuilding and before signing any contracts or placing deposits:

  • Get in touch with your insurance company;
  • Speak to a local, licensed professional;
  • Review credentials and references;
  • Get more than one written estimate; and
  • Ask for a contract and read it carefully.

“Scammers use storm clean-up efforts as an opportunity to take advantage of victims who are desperate to address basement flooding and repair damage right away,” Nessel said. “Consumers should do their research before making any decisions that will impact their home or business.”

Attorney General Nessel’s Government Imposter Scams Consumer Alert educates Michiganders on ways bad actors may try to take advantage of people who are cleaning up after severe weather, and reminds residents that imposters may claim to be anyone ranging from a government official to your local power or insurance provider.

In particular, criminals will contact consumers and tell them they have been selected to receive government funding to assist with repairs, or that if they pay an early deposit, they may receive priority standing for needed repairs. In order to receive the alleged benefit, the person will be asked to share personal or banking information.

Attorney General Nessel’s Disaster Scams Consumer Alert provides information on how to identify and stop other common post-disaster scams.

The Better Business Bureau is also a helpful resource to research local companies and contractors when navigating repairs and cleanup.

While tree services are not licensed, it’s important consumers vet them as thoroughly as other contractors and request written quotes outlining the total project cost before signing any agreements. This will help consumers avoid potential price gouging and other predatory business practices, especially during emergencies.

Another common scam following severe weather is the Disaster Relief Charity Scam. Attorney General Nessel encourages residents wanting to help to use the following tips to ensure they are giving wisely:

  • Be wary of messages from unknown organizations. Give to organizations that are well-known for giving disaster relief.
  • Avoid social media ads raising money for victims. If you wish to give online, use the charity’s website instead of going through an unknown link.
  • Research the charity and find out if it is registered to receive money (solicit) in Michigan.
  • Don’t be pressured. Genuine charities give you time to decide when and what’s right for you.
  • Be careful when organizations say you previously gave to them, especially if you don’t remember donating.
  • Avoid alleged charities that ask for alternate forms of payment. Real charities never ask for wire transfers, gift cards, or other non-traditional payments.
  • Donate to trusted organizations even if you don’t receive a new solicitation.

To report extended power outages or inquire about overdue outage credits, the department provides a Power Outage Feedback and Inquiry form for all residents.

To file a complaint with the Attorney General, or get additional information, contact:

Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form